Home health eligibility under Medicare requires the physician's attestation that the patient needs home care and is homebound.

• A. The patient requires home care and is homebound
• B. The patient must be in a nursing facility
• C. The patient must have Part D
• D. The patient must be enrolled in CHAMPVA

Answer: (A)

Medicare home health coverage hinges on two things documented by a physician: the patient is homebound and the patient needs skilled home health services. The physician signs a certification of eligibility and establishes a plan of care. This attestation confirms the medical necessity for receiving care at home, which is what Medicare requires to authorize home health services such as skilled nursing, physical therapy, or occupational therapy.

Homebound means leaving the home is typically difficult or requires substantial effort, and any trips outside are usually limited to medical appointments or only when necessary for care. The other options don’t fit because being in a nursing facility isn’t a prerequisite for home health, and enrollment in Part D or CHAMPVA status doesn’t determine Medicare home health eligibility.